Globally mobile populations and the spread of emerging pathogens

Emerg Infect Dis. 2009 Nov;15(11):1713-4. doi: 10.3201/eid1511.091426.

Abstract

During the past decade, the global public health community has been challenged by the emergence and rapid worldwide spread of novel influenza strains, severe acute respiratory syndrome, chikungunya virus, drug-resistant tuberculosis, and other conditions and pathogens. Modern transportation and increased tourism, business travel, and immigration contributed to dissemination of these high-impact pathogens. The effectiveness of interventions such as airport screening, travel restrictions, and other community mitigation measures remains uncertain. However, human migration has occurred for centuries and will continue, despite the threats posed by microbes.

Publication types

  • Introductory Journal Article

MeSH terms

  • Communicable Diseases, Emerging / prevention & control
  • Communicable Diseases, Emerging / transmission*
  • Emigrants and Immigrants*
  • Emigration and Immigration
  • Global Health
  • Humans
  • Travel*